DMV California

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First full week of December 2026 · First full week of December, every year

Older Driver Safety Awareness Week in California

A week in December for families to talk about driving and aging before the DMV forces the topic at renewal time.

Older Driver Safety Awareness Week falls in the first full week of December each year. The point isn't taking keys away: it's planning ahead so driving can continue safely as long as possible, and so the alternatives are in place before they're needed.

What changes at 70 in California

  • Drivers 70 and older renew in person at a DMV office, with a vision test at every renewal.
  • A knowledge test can be required based on driving record or a physician's report.
  • The DMV can add restrictions (daylight only, corrective lenses, no freeway) instead of denying a license outright, which keeps many drivers safely on the road for years longer.
  • Anyone, including family members and doctors, can request a DMV driver reevaluation when there's a genuine safety concern.

The in-person renewal process, what to bring, and the $46 fee are covered in our senior driver license guide. Seniors preparing for a required knowledge test can use the senior practice test, which uses the same question pool as the regular exam.

Frequently asked questions

Do California drivers over 70 have to renew in person?

Yes. Drivers 70 and older must renew at a DMV office in person and pass a vision test at each renewal. Online and mail renewal are not available in this age group.

Does turning 70 mean taking the written test again in California?

Not automatically. The DMV requires a knowledge test only when triggered by the driving record, a physician report, or an examiner referral. Many drivers 70+ renew with just the vision test.

Related guides

Official resources